Lead - WI

Test for Lead in Drinking Water (Wisconsin Only) Please note:  This test is not suitable for DCFS lead testing requirements for day care homes.  If you are testing a day care home, please use the Lead in Day Cares test. What is lead? Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around homes. Even at low levels, lead may cause a range of health effects including behavioral problems and learning disabilities. Children six years old and under are most at risk because this is when the brain is developing. The primary source of lead exposure for most children is lead-based paint in older homes. Lead in drinking water can add to that exposure. Lead is sometimes used in household plumbing materials or in water service lines used to bring water from the main to the home. A prohibition on lead in plumbing materials has been in effect since 1986.  What are lead’s health effects? Infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level coul